Chinese Paramilitary Police Gather For Drills Near Hong Kong Border

Large numbers of China's People's Armed Police were seen in Shenzhen wearing military fatigues conducting drills.

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China's paramilitary force has been seen gathering near the Hong Kong border this week to conduct crowd control drills. It comes as protests continued in Hong Kong for the 10th week.

Large numbers of China's People's Armed Police were seen inside a sports complex in Shenzhen wearing military fatigues, shields and riot gear, multiple outlets reported.

Their presence just miles from Hong Kong has caused speculation that Beijing is considering sending forces over the border.

Protests in Hong Kong started in early June over a now-suspended extradition bill, which would have allowed China to extradite suspects from Hong Kong. But the protests have grown to include issues like police brutality and calls for Hong Kong's leader to step down.

Last week, protesters occupied Hong Kong international airport and forced hundreds of flight cancellations. Then earlier this week, the airport demonstrations turned chaotic and ended in violent clashes between police and protesters. China's Hong Kong Liaison office called the airport protests "terrorist-like."

So far, there is no confirmation Beijing is planning to send paramilitary troops to Hong Kong to intervene.